What Happens After You Apply for Canadian Citizenship? Process Timeline & Guide
(3-4 min estimated read time)
Applying for Canadian citizenship is a big step in your journey. Once you submit your application, it is natural to wonder what happens next. Many applicants feel anxious about the waiting time, the tests, and the final ceremony. Knowing the process in advance helps reduce uncertainty.
The good news is that the process follows a clear timeline, with predictable steps. This guide will walk you through each stage, from submission to ceremony, so you know what to expect. If you want tailored guidance, you may benefit from consulting with a trusted Canadian immigration consultant who can make the process clearer.
From Submission to Acknowledgement: When “Process Begins”
The first stage starts once you submit your application. At this point, IRCC checks the basics before formal processing begins.
Submission formalities and what IRCC checks first
IRCC reviews whether your application is complete. They check that you paid the correct fees, included all documents, and signed the forms. If something is missing, your application may be returned.
“Acknowledgement of Receipt” (AOR) — what it means, when you get it
If your application is complete, you will receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). This document confirms that your file has been accepted into processing.
If you applied online, you will receive the AOR by email. If you submitted a paper application, it will be sent by mail or email depending on the contact details you provided.
The AOR is an important milestone because it shows that the review clock has officially started.
What if your application is incomplete?
If your file is missing key documents or signatures, IRCC will return it to you. In some cases, they may ask you to correct or resubmit certain parts. The official processing time only begins once a complete application is on file.
Waiting Phase: Processing, Background Checks and Test Invitations
After you receive your AOR, the application enters the main waiting period.
Official processing time / service standard
As of 2025, the average processing time for citizenship applications is about 10 months. The official service standard is 12 months, but depending on complexity, some applications take up to 14 months.
What IRCC does internally during this wait
IRCC carries out background checks, reviews your identity, and verifies your eligibility. They confirm your physical presence days, tax filings, and language proof. In some cases, they may ask for additional documents to clarify details.
Citizenship test / interview invitation
Applicants between the ages of 18 and 54 will receive an invitation to take the citizenship knowledge test. This test measures your understanding of Canadian rights, responsibilities, and history. Depending on your application, you may also be asked to attend an interview.
You must remain available in Canada to attend the test or interview as scheduled.
What you can (and cannot) do in this period
You are allowed to travel after submitting your application, but your PR status must remain valid. You also need to stay reachable by mail or email to respond to IRCC requests. Long absences could cause problems with scheduling or raise concerns about your commitment.
Applicants sometimes use this waiting period to seek advice from a PR immigration consultant to prepare for upcoming steps.
Decision Phase and Notification
Once the checks and tests are complete, IRCC moves to the decision stage.
“Decision Made” status: approval vs refusal
In the IRCC online tracker, you will see a “Decision Made” update when your application is finalized. If approved, you will move to the oath ceremony. If refused, you will receive a written explanation.
The “certificate of citizenship” and next steps
You do not become a citizen until you attend the oath ceremony. Only after taking the Oath of Citizenship will you receive your citizenship certificate. This certificate is the official proof of your new status.
What can delay the decision
Some files take longer if there are missing or conflicting documents. Criminal checks, inadmissibility issues, or backlogs can also slow down processing.
Oath / Citizenship Ceremony
The citizenship ceremony is one of the most important parts of the process.
What happens at the ceremony
During the ceremony, you take the Oath of Citizenship. After this, you receive your certificate of Canadian citizenship.
Timing: how long after decision
The timeline between approval and ceremony varies by region. Some applicants attend within weeks, while others wait longer depending on scheduling capacity.
What if the ceremony is waived or delayed
In rare situations, you may request accommodation or exemption for the ceremony, usually for medical or disability reasons.
After the Oath: Your Rights, PR Card, and Next Moves
The moment you take the oath, you become a full citizen.
When do you begin enjoying full citizenship rights
Your rights begin immediately after you take the oath and receive your certificate. This includes the right to vote, run for office, and obtain a Canadian passport.
What happens with your PR Card
Once you are a citizen, your PR card is no longer needed. Citizenship status replaces permanent resident status.
Travel and applying for a Canadian passport
As a citizen, you can apply for a Canadian passport. This makes travel easier and provides global mobility.
Other administrative updates
You may need to update your Social Insurance Number, electoral roll, or other records to reflect your new status.
What if IRCC changes its mind after decision
Although rare, IRCC can revisit a decision if new information arises. This usually happens if fraud or misrepresentation is discovered after approval.
Applicants pursuing long-term settlement options may also consider pathways such as the Canada immigration PNP if they are not yet eligible for citizenship.
Typical Timeline Summary and Visual Flow
Here is a simplified timeline of the process:
- Submit application → completeness check → AOR
- Processing and background checks
- Test and interview invitation (if required)
- Decision (approval or refusal)
- Oath and citizenship ceremony
- Citizenship rights and passport application
On average, the full process takes 10 to 14 months from the time IRCC receives a complete application.
How to Stay in Control: Tips and Best Practices
While you cannot control the exact speed of IRCC processing, you can take steps to avoid delays.
Keep your contact information updated
Always make sure your email, mailing address, and phone number are current with IRCC.
Respond promptly
If IRCC asks for documents, reply quickly to avoid delays.
Avoid long absences
Do not plan extended travel that could interfere with test or ceremony dates.
Monitor IRCC processing times
Use IRCC’s online tool to check current average timelines and compare with your own case.
Prepare in advance
Study for the test early, and gather all documents you may need for the ceremony.
Consider professional review
Consulting experts can help you avoid mistakes that cause unnecessary delays. If you want assistance, you can contact Northia for professional support.
Conclusion
Applying for citizenship is an important milestone. After you apply, your file goes through clear stages: completeness checks, background reviews, tests, decisions, and the final oath ceremony. By knowing what comes next, you can reduce stress and stay prepared.
With patience, proper planning, and accurate documents, you will move through the process smoothly and achieve your goal of Canadian citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How long does it take to get Canadian citizenship after applying?
The average time is 10 to 14 months from submission to oath ceremony.
Q2. What happens if my application is incomplete?
IRCC will return it or ask for corrections, and processing will not begin until it is complete.
Q3. Do I become a citizen as soon as IRCC approves my file?
No. You only become a citizen once you take the Oath of Citizenship at a ceremony.
Q4. Can I travel while my application is being processed?
Yes, as long as your PR status remains valid and you can respond to IRCC requests.
Q5. What if I miss my citizenship test or ceremony date?
You must inform IRCC immediately. Failure to attend without valid reason may delay or harm your application.
